Oklahoma’s Beavers Bend State Park is home to an array of impressive natural features that make it the perfect destination for outdoor activities. These attractions range from towering trees and rugged terrain to crystal clear waters, making the park an outdoor lover’s paradise. You can hike, bike, boat, and engage in other outdoor activities when exploring this state park. Also, apart from offering thrilling adventure, the park features educational programs through its unique Forest Heritage Center Museum. This institution, often considered “The Wood Art Capital of Oklahoma,” offers multiple activities for all age groups centered around learning and exposure. Here’s more about this unique institution in the heart of Beavers Bend State Park.
A Brief History
The Forest Heritage Museum highlights the strides that Oklahomans made regarding forestry. This progress is evident by how the adjacent areas have improved in implementing measures to protect the ever-green surroundings of Beavers Bend State Park. There are also numerous exhibits at the institution. These pieces highlight the steps and actions taken to preserve the towering flora of Oklahoma. You can visit Forest Heritage Center Museum to verse yourself with how forests play a significant part in the area’s economy.
Why Visit Forest Heritage Center Museum
You can visit the museum with your loved ones, including kids. Rest assured, a session of education and entertainment awaits you. You’ll also come across several antique forestry tools used by Native Americans for lumbering. Besides these artistic objects, wood art and homestead memorabilia also make up the exhibits exhibited in the museum.
The institution also features a gallery coined The People of the Forestry Gallery. This art exhibition depicts the inception of the Forestry industry and efforts made by the Civilian Conservation Corps in McCurtain County. The museum also features an educative message on forestry conveyed by 14 dioramas. These large acrylic dioramas are works of the fabled Harry Rosoll. Harry Rosoll is an Atlanta artist famous for drawing Smokey Bear. The art pieces feature a taped narration to educate you on forestry in Oklahoma.
The museum also features a library with periodicals, books, and other materials. You can learn more about prehistoric forestry in Oklahoma in the library. Several sculptures, including an 8-foot bronze sculpture honoring firefighters who risk their lives fighting forest fires, feature in the museum. You can visit the museum every day from 8 AM to 5 PM. If you’re planning to visit for an educational tour, you can contact the museum staff by calling 580-494-6497 or following the museum on its social media pages.
Book Your Stay
Exploring Beavers Bend State Park is one of the top things to do in Oklahoma. The park’s attractions, including the museum, make it a unique place to experience the mountainous aspect of Oklahoma. If you’re looking to explore this part of Oklahoma, you can contact us to book the perfect vacation rental close to these attractions.